Water Saving Dishwashers

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New research has uncovered that common misconceptions about water and energy usage are still prevalent in most Australian homes.

Nearly 9 out of 10 Australians (89 per cent) still think dishwashers consume more energy; and 6 out of 10 (59 per cent) believe they guzzle more water than hand washing dishes[1].

A recent study by Colmar Brunton[2] found that these Australian homes could each save close to eight thousand litres of water over the course of a year – the equivalent of 66 eight-minute showers – by switching from hand washing their dishes to using a dishwasher.

The research found that washing dishes by hand uses up to five times more water and 60% more energy when compared to using a 4 star dishwasher for the same quantity of dishes.

The results of the Colmar Brunton study are in line with findings from the Australian consumer group Choice which found that dishwashers are more water and energy efficient than dish washing by hand when stacked full and without pre rinsing of dishes[3].

Aquatic scientist Sheree Marris urged consumers to think about the impact of their water use.

“We can all do our part to reduce our water and energy consumption to help preserve our precious resources,” Ms Marris said.

“Reducing the length of showers, installing water saving toilet and shower fixtures and even using a dishwasher are simple things we can do to reduce our water consumption.”

The survey also found that three quarters of people are concerned about their water consumption and 83 per cent are worried about their energy consumption

It seems Australians are already finding creative ways to reduce their water footprint, with 1 in 10 adults admitting to showering with another person to save water.

Other popular methods of reducing water and energy consumption include:

• Taking shorter showers: 75%
• Turning off taps when brushing teeth: 79%
• Using grey water on the garden: 33%
• Turning lights off when leaving a room: 92%
• Washing clothes with cold water instead of warm or hot: 67%

“Doing your part to reduce water and energy doesn’t have to be time consuming or come at a high cost,” says Ms Marris.

“Most of today’s mod cons like dishwashers are much more efficient than they were in the past and have higher energy ratings. If you already have a dishwasher, always make sure it’s full before staring it, and if you don’t have a dishwasher maybe now’s the time to consider getting one.”